Shrimp Fra Diavolo Pasta – Spicy, Saucy & Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re in the mood for something bold, this Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo delivers a perfect punch of heat and flavor. It’s a restaurant-worthy dish made at home, featuring shrimp simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce kissed with chili flakes and herbs.

Each bite brings the right amount of spice balanced by fresh basil and sweet onions. It’s a pasta night with flair and comfort combined.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Fra Diavolo Pasta

This shrimp Fra Diavolo recipe is fast, fiery, and full of flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to pull together on a weeknight while tasting like a dish straight out of your favorite Italian bistro.

• Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples
• Bursting with spicy, garlicky flavor and fresh herbs
• Light yet satisfying for seafood lovers
• Perfect for special dinners or cozy nights in
• Great for pairing with crisp salads or crusty bread
• Customizable spice level to your preference

I first learned to make this dish when experimenting with seafood recipes after moving near Austin. My mom ran a food truck that was all about bold flavors, and I wanted to bring that same heat to pasta. A little red pepper, a lot of garlic, and fresh basil took me right back to those nights cooking under string lights and laughter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This spicy shrimp pasta is built on bold yet balanced flavors that come together fast.

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – tender and juicy protein base
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – builds a rich, silky sauce base
• 1 small onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
• 1 spicy red pepper, chopped (optional) – for extra kick
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped – aromatic foundation for flavor
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes – provides texture and acidity
• 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (plus extra to taste) – brings signature heat
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – for those skipping wine, adds flavor without alcohol
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – infuses earthy balance
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Finish

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley – for a bright, herby note
• 6–7 basil leaves, chopped – adds fresh aroma
• 8 ounces cooked linguine noodles – to soak up the sauce

For Garnish

• Extra red chili flakes for spice lovers
• Fresh parsley for color and vibrancy

Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes

• Swap shrimp for scallops or cod chunks for a milder twist
• Add zucchini ribbons or spinach for greens in the sauce
• Use angel hair or spaghetti if you prefer thinner noodles
• Stir in a spoon of cream cheese for a creamy variation
• Try pairing with crusty bread or Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking this Fra Diavolo is all about timing—keeping the shrimp tender while the sauce develops its spicy depth.

1. Prep the pasta: Cook linguine according to package directions. Drain and set aside with a drizzle of olive oil. (Keeps noodles from sticking.)
   
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and red pepper. (The fragrance will be your signal—it’s time for tomatoes!)
   
3. Build the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 10 minutes until slightly thickened. (Let the sauce bubble slowly—it deepens flavor.)
   
4. Add the shrimp: Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then stir into the sauce. Cook 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. (Don’t overcook; they should just curl.)
   
5. Toss and finish: Add the cooked linguine, basil, and parsley. Toss gently until coated. Adjust seasoning or add more chili flakes for extra fire.

Quick Reminders:

• Don’t crowd shrimp in the pan; sear in batches if needed
• Always taste and adjust salt before serving
• Fresh herbs elevate the dish—don’t skip them
• A drizzle of olive oil at the end adds shine

Expert Tips for Success

This pasta relies on layering spice and freshness. Here’s how to make it sing:

• Use fresh shrimp for the best texture—frozen can work if thawed properly
• For a deeper flavor, sauté the chili flakes with garlic early on
• Use crushed tomatoes, not puree, to keep a rustic texture
• Let the sauce rest off the heat for a few minutes before serving
• If you like extra heat, try blending a bit of Tomato Garlic Pasta sauce into it
• Serve immediately for peak flavor—shrimp cool fast
• Garnish generously with herbs for color and balance

The key is to trust your senses—smell, color, and texture will guide you every step.

Serving Suggestions

This fiery shrimp pasta shines as a main course but pairs perfectly with simple sides.

• Serve with a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables
• Add buttery garlic bread or Italian Crescent Rolls
• Enjoy with sparkling lemonade or citrus water for balance
• Top with grated Parmesan if you like a savory edge
• Ideal for date nights or family pasta dinners
  Bring it to the table family-style with tongs and a big smile—Fra Diavolo loves company.

Storing and Reheating

This dish is best fresh, but leftovers still taste amazing when handled right.

How to Store It

• Store in airtight containers in the fridge up to 3 days
• Keep shrimp and pasta separate if possible to avoid sogginess
• Freeze sauce alone for up to 2 months
• Let cool completely before sealing
• Label and date your containers

How to Reheat It

• Stovetop: Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth until warm
• Microwave: 60–90 seconds with stirring halfway through
• Oven: Cover and warm at 325°F for 10 minutes
• Avoid overheating shrimp—they’ll toughen quickly
  Handled carefully, the sauce and shrimp stay flavorful and tender even the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a chef without breaking a sweat. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and full of heart—perfect for those nights when you crave a little heat and a lot of comfort.

• Quick, bold, and satisfying seafood pasta
• Easy to customize with your favorite spice level
• Brings restaurant-style flavor to your own kitchen

Jake

Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo Pasta

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Bring heat and flavor to dinner with this Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo—juicy shrimp tossed in a fiery tomato sauce over tender linguine for a restaurant-style meal at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 17 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 spicy red pepper, chopped (optional)
• 4 clove garlic, chopped
• 14 oz crushed tomatoes
• 2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 0.5 cup chicken broth
• 0.5 tsp dried oregano
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 6 basil leaves, chopped
• 8 oz cooked linguine noodles
• extra red chili flakes (for garnish)
• fresh parsley (for garnish)

Equipment

• large skillet
• Pot for pasta
• colander

Method

 

1. Cook linguine according to package directions. Drain and set aside with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 2–3 minutes. Stir in garlic and optional red pepper.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp are pink and just curled.
5. Add cooked linguine, basil, and parsley to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat. Adjust seasoning and add chili flakes to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 38.5gProtein: 34.2gFat: 15.4gSaturated Fat: 2.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6.8gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 625mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 460IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 3mg

Notes

• This pasta delivers a perfect balance of heat and freshness.
• You can adjust the spice level by modifying the chili flakes.
• For best results, use fresh shrimp and don’t overcook them.
• The sauce develops deeper flavor if simmered gently, and fresh herbs at the end enhance aroma and presentation. 

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